LinkedIn is THE recruiting tool these days. If you are looking for a new job, you MUST learn the secrets of LinkedIn to make the process easier.

If you haven't polished your profile and optimized your usage, you're missing out on great opportunities for being discovered for your next great job. Have the recruiters coming to you instead of you chasing after them.

Step 1: Of course, you have to have a great product (you and your experience). Create a profile that shines and illustrates all you have to offer - not just a list of responsibilities. Include awards, publications, presentations, projects, media.Step 2: Build your network. The more people you are connected to, the more people will have a chance of seeing your profile.Step 3: Learn HOW to use LinkedIn. Be active in it, be social. Say Happy Birthday or Congratulations to your connections.Step 4: Every keystroke is collected to tell the database what kind of job you're looking for. Use it wisely. Doing so will have recruiters finding you in their searches, contacting you, and offering you great new opportunities.

Helping people with this aspect of the job search is one of my favorite things. Recently, I helped someone revise her resume and update her profile. Within a week, she had 10 interviews set up. Convinced yet?